TO INSPIRE AND EMPOWER LEADERS TO​CREATE A BETTER HAWAII.

About Hawaii CaresHawaii Cares is made of many individuals who are committed to creating a stronger and healthier Hawaii, a better Hawaii. We’re out there to do our part, to give back, to strengthen communities and to help people. Members keep each other motivated and inspired, and make each other feel empowered to help others. Our goal is for people in communities to know and to remember that, “Hawaii Cares.”​

What Makes Us Different?We are a catalyst for change. People of all generations and walks of life are looking to make a connection – to make things better, to be part of something bigger. Through Hawaii Cares, we are igniting a social movement in Honolulu by empowering people to unite and solve complex problems that affect us all. Our goal is to make a BIG impact on our community with significant results.

What’s in it For You?Our hope is that you create deep relationships with members of this affinity group, make a significant impact in our community and become a leader in social change. Through unique networking events, hands-on volunteering opportunities and innovative leadership trainings, members are able to leverage the power of Hawaii Cares to connect, serve and grow, both personally and professionally.​Time CommitmentAs for time commitment, this organization is what each individual makes of it. The group is designed to ‘create-your-own experience,’ meaning you invest what time that you want and are able to. This includes signing up for multiple community service projects, attending networking events, collecting items for our quarterly drives, or participating in any combination of the activities that are hosted throughout the year. It’s truly up to you.​

Leadership

AJ HalagaoExecutive Vice President, HEI Charitable Foundation

AJ is passionate about helping Hawaii become a better place and serves on boards for After-School All-Stars, Aloha Medical Mission and several more organizations

He loves working for HEI as the manager of corporate and community advancement and as the VP of the HEI Charitable Foundation​

Michael GarciaLocal Sales Manager, Oceanic Time Warner Cable

Michael believes that we all have many gifts and talents to help people

Lives by the motto, “To me everyone is important…no one should be left behind! Together we can build an amazing future and support each other and inspire big dreams.”

Brian KealohaExecutive Director, Hawai’i Energy

Brian has been involved with advancing clean energy in Hawaii and on the mainland for over 20 years

Is a huge sports fan and plays basketball regularly, although you wouldn't guess that by his game

Proudly reps University of Hawaii at Manoa and Gonzaga sports teams

Sandy KobayashiSales, Oceanic Time Warner Cable

Sandy is passionate about Media and Marketing

Helps the community through Dress for Success at the YWCA and Scrabble Tournaments at KPT

Avid University of Hawaii Sports Fan. Go Bows!​

Sherry Menor-McNamaraPresident and Chief Executive Officer, The Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii

Sherry is the youngest and first female President and CEO of the Chamber in the organization’s 166-year history

In 2014, she was recognized as “Top 10 to Watch” by Pacific Business News

She was born in Tokyo, Japan and raised in Hilo, where she graduated from Waiakea High School

James SerenoOwner/Director/Producer, Kinetic Productions

James has a passion, drive and commitment to serve

Has held clients including HECO, American Savings Bank, Island Insurance, and Aloha United Way

Used to do triathlons, but the key word here is “used to”

Loves basketball and tries to catch as many games as he can​

Jody ShiromaVice President, Marketing and Communications, Aloha United Way

Jody believes strongly that, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

Under Donna's leadership, the Central Pacific Bank developed a strong employee culture encouraging community involvement with over 90% of all employees participating in at least one charitable endeavor each year

Enjoys traveling (primarily to eat), cooking, hiking and making crafts on her free time​

Jason ThuneDirector – Network Planning – Hawaiian Telcom

​Oversees a team responsible for the strategic planning, capital budgeting and implementation of the company’s telecommunications, TV, high-speed internet, voice, and fiber optic networks

Is currently a Pacific Century Fellow and a Hawaii Asia Pacific Association Young Leader

Was a contestant on Wheel of Fortune and holds a Commercial Pilot’s license​